Karim Benzema snubbed a move to Manchester United to join Real Madrid in 2009, according to Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas.
The French international emerged during his younger years with Lyon as one of the most talented strikers in the game and was subject to heavy interest from a number of top European clubs.
Benzema, who scored 37 Ligue 1 goals in 72 games during his time with the French side, made the move to Real Madrid in 2009 and has since gone on to play an important part in their success, helping them to a Champions League title in May.
However, it is has now been revealed that the striker could have been playing for Man United.
“For a long time he wanted to play for Real Madrid, and when things began to fall into place we did not object,” Aulas told Canal+.
“Manchester United’s offer was superior, but he was given the opportunity to go where he wanted.”